Description
A hearty and comforting split pea soup made with tender ham and flavorful spices. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed split peas, ham hock (or diced ham), chicken broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender.
- Remove the ham hock (if used) and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat, discard the bone, and return the shredded ham to the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the peas with a potato masher or immersion blender.
- You can also add diced potatoes or other vegetables for variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 12
- Protein: 15
Keywords: split pea soup with ham, hearty soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, healthy soup